Great scenic views with winding roads that connects to different parts of the city. Kelly drive also overlooks the schuylkill river and has a walking path for pedestrians, bikers, roller bladers you name it! I often enjoy going out to kelly drive whenever I'm in the mood for a nice long walk. On the weekends it can get very busy cause your sharing the path with everyone and their momma and it can literally turn a peaceful walk to something out of a video game in which the objective of the game is to duck and dodge all the traffic in order to get to your destination at a specific time lol! Overall it's a great place to drive through and explore as well as get some exercise or sight see! They also have a mini parking lot. read more

Kelly Drive - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I love the space. You'll find joggers, walkers, and cyclist. You'll also see lots of green space to have picnics at and walk your dog.

A friend and I spent some time down here recently just drinking beer and enjoying the view of the water. Many folks were out and about enjoying all that the river drive has to offer which is plenty. Jog, walk your dog, have a picnic, ride a bike, row a boat. This has always been a great place to be. Watch out for the geese though, they like it there as much as we do and not shy about letting you know it. read more

Kelly Drive - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Kelly Drive is my go-to spot to run. And I have run there almost every day for close to 2 decades now. There is no better spot in the city if you prefer to run on non-hilly surfaces. The views are great. Most of the way there is a dirt path next to the trail so you can avoid macadam. And when there is not a dirt path there usually is enough room to run on the grass next to the trail. Fairmount park used to do a great job keeping the path clear/salted as soon as it starts to snow but the last few years they have been a lackadaisical (or unfunded?) with that. The drive gets a bit too crowded w recreational walkers on warm weekends and the first few warm days of the year. It is also a terrible place to exercise if there is a regatta as rowers don't seem to understand how to share the trail. Personally, I avoid the drive when I am on my bike. The trail is just not wide enough so I only recommend it for people on foot. read more

My regular (and very censored) thoughts as I navigate Kelly Drive: "Please remove yourself from my bumper. I am in the right lane. Go around me." "Thank you for sliding in front of me without a blinker. Fantastic considering all the curves. Woo-hoo, go you! Driver Of The Year." "Don't hit me. Oh my god, don't hit me. Over the line. They're over the line. Don't. Hit. Me." As a city-to-burbs commuter who passionately hates driving, it's unfortunate that this is really the only way I can avoid hangin' out on 76 for a prolonged period and get to work at a reasonable time. This road absolutely terrifies me. If you ever see someone clutching their steering wheel and driving precisely 35 mph while slowing down around the crazy curves, it's likely me. I don't know how some people can drive 55+ without careening into a car/the river/other objects. Three stars for the pedestrian path, and...well, I suppose the views too, but I can't say I ever take my eyes off the road. read more

It was a nice place to go to for cherry blossoms as well as nice walk. Some of the views of Philly downtown were also amazing.

Statues. Boathouses. Water. Pathway. What more do you need? Kelly Drive is often my go-to when I need to take a walk, run/jog or go bike riding. There's a scenic path where you can really take your time to clear your head. Kelly Drive is apparently a nice place to take a date too-at night the city lights and the water make a pretty nice romantic scene. read more

Kelly Drive - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Most beautiful view in the whole city. I might be bias, because I grew up here but there is no season where this isn't a perfect place to visit for the scenery and a good time spent with loved ones. You can sit by the river, play frisbee on the grass area, watch sunsets along the boathouse row. Really this is just the perfect place to appreciate nature and enjoy quality time. There is so much area to walk, people host celebrations there and you can walk to the front of the Philadelphia museum of art from Kelly drive area. There is a side of it full of flowers and little designed alcoves for picnics and private celebrations. read more

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Welcome to Philly 101: Strategies for Maximum Enjoyment of Kelly Drive 1. Wake up early (no, 10am is not early) and ride a bike/run/walk Kelly Drive from the Art Museum to the Falls Bridge (almost 4.5mi.). If feeling ambitious and/or frisky, cross Falls Bridge and return via MLK Drive to do the entire Loop (nearly 9mi). 2. Show up any old time and take a totally unathletic stroll. Read a novel in some grass. Smoke a cigarette and ponder the nature of the river. A word of caution... Don't try to ride Tour de France style or train for your triathalon at 11 am on the first sunny Saturday in ages. You will only frustrate yourself and the hand-holding babyJoggers everywhere. Stay to the right. Pass on the left. Simple yet effective, this absolutely minimal courtesy reduces danger for the veritable rainbow of users of this two-way trail. read more

Kelly Drive - Boathouse Row by Richard Owens http://www.flickr.com/photos/rowens27/3627333201/ - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Kelly Drive--definitely one of the most notable local flavors of PHL! It's scenic with lush green grass, along the Schuylkill River. It's really a great place to get out and move, or just to enjoy the scenes. Whether you want to walk, run, bike, skate, or even picnic, it's certainly multifaceted. They host outdoor events like outdoor movie nights too. Explore as much as you want! read more

Springtime is here & its timeeee to get this body right! So after a little gym session I decided to head over to Kelly drive to get a light jog in & it is beautiful! Absolutely stunning, lots of people also exercising or just having a nice time enjoying the view of the city, the water, or other people (people watchers exist y'all!). You can come down here and rent bikes or eat at the cute little cafe on site. It does get pretty busy in this area as soon as it gets nice out which can be annoying, particularly the people on bikes, not that it's their fault I just wish there was a bike lane on the trail to make it easier for us on foot. It is extremely romantic for the couples, a fun time for the kids, or a soothing environment for the stressed. I recommend it to those visiting who want some nice photos. read more

Kelly Drive - Getting ready for a workout on Kelly Drive. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Here's a different perspective on Kelly Drive. As a (car) commuter and a cyclist, I don't love it. From a general athletic standpoint, it's great. Who wouldn't love to work out with this gorgeous scenery? As a matter of fact, a lot of people love it. It gets super crowded, especially during peak times like weekends and evenings when the weather is nice. As a cyclist, it involves dodging runners, walkers, rollerbladers and other cyclists. I find it to be a little dangerous and opt to talk West River Drive whenever possible. I know the tendency is to blame the cyclists, but we are (mostly) the ones paying attention. We aren't screaming "on your left" because it's fun to say. We don't want to get hurt and we don't want to hurt you. Additionally, I just find parts of the road on the trail aren't in the best of shape anymore. From a commuter's standpoint, this route will take you on twists on turns. There are many more curves than its West River Drive counterpart. I'm sure many more accidents as well. Pay attention, stay in your lane and slow down! Drivers are whipping around these curves 20 MPH over the speed limit. Beware of regattas. Some of them will cause partial shutdowns on the road and cause a lot of foot traffic. What can I say? I'm a West River Drive type of gal. read more

So what can I say about Kelly Drive that many on yelp doesn't already know!! Y'all already know that this is a remarkable 4 miles stretch along the schuylkill river. IF you are training for the Broad Street 10 miler, half marathon or even the full marathon...this is perfect for training. You can do the 8 mile Loop along Kelly drive and Martin Luther King Drive! This is where I train for all of my runs including my first marathon! There is also a bike rental area so you can bike ride along this scenic route! Many people bring their bike out for some good exercise and serene views along the river. There are also people who pick that special spot to fish and catch tonight's dinner! I'm not one of those but it seems pretty cool to me. All around beautiful views and great for people watching or excercise! One of the top destination in Philly! read more

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One of the best spots to run in the city!!! There's free parking behind the art museum weekday afternoons. I typically come here after work so by the time I get here it's 6-7. There's a decent amount of people here so I would say it's pretty safe (Fall/Summer/Spring)...not sure about the winter or who is jogging out here in the snow. I like stretching/warming up behind the art museum (there's a mini hill and some steps I like to run up and down on). Once I'm done warming up I'll start jogging towards center city. The trail is pretty long I've never ran the whole trail. I usually run towards center city but you can also run the opposite way towards fairmount. The view is breath taking in the summer if you're like into nature and scenic routes. People are typically friendly- joggers, cyclists, dog walkers, mothers walking their baby strollers, etc. Just be courteous and stay on the right- don't be taking up the entire path. Sometimes I'll walk my corgi here and bring him to the dog park (there's a little path to the park once you pass 30th station). read more

Philadelphia is blessed to have so many gorgeous green spaces. And Kelly Drive is among the prettiest with great people-watching. If you are a walker, runner or jogger, the paths here are perfect and really never too crowded unless there is a special event being held. The views of the Schuylkill (pronounced Squew Kill if you are non native, Sure Kill if you are - haha) are really lovely. read more

My favorite park! Just just breath taking place. I personally think this place is even better than central park read more

My favorite place to be when I'm back home. I usually rent a bike or just walk along the river. Its so peaceful. Sometimes there's free events happening throughout the summer. This is a great place to come to enjoy the weather, fish, jog, or just relax. At night boathouse row is lit up, which looks like a scene out of a Christmas movie. Sometimes my friends and I would bring tons of food and have late nite picnics. If you're looking for a place to chill out on a cool summer night, or a place to jog or run for an early morning workout, or just simply lay around and tan, this is the place to be. read more

Like the only other review as of now...I AM surprised there aren't more reviews...I mean I just never did cuz I must take it for granted. It's just there...All the time! Filled with people, kids, dogs and horrid GEESE during certain seasons (no idea how they're endangered!! although i think they're changing that ruling)... Great place when it's nice out (all seasons!) to walk, run, jog, bike, rollerblade, unicycle (yup I've seen it) or even sit, sunbathe or fish (you need a license). Right along the schuykill, this windy trail is paved with grassy areas between you and the river for most parts and interspersed with statues, bridges and small rock climbing practice wall (free hand). You can start at East Falls bridge or the art museum at the other end, either way you're in for a nice time. Plus some of the statues along the way are interesting... You get a view of boathouse row from the back or really the street side that's not bedecked in LED lights. So glimpses of crew teams if you're into that :) Plus you can watch them practice (all the time) or compete on the river (during regattas which occur very often in spring/summer). Great people watching. Choose to relax or be active! read more

Oh Kelly Drive... you're so beautiful! Definitely one of my favorite places to visit in all of Philly! I've been here countless times for skating sessions, walks, photography and events. It's a beautiful place to find peace of mind and relax. read more

The cure for the urban doldrums, oh Kelly you beautiful thing. Whether you are getting away from 76, or going for a run/ride on the loop, this is some pure Pennsylvania lush goodness in the heart of Philadelphia. I've run this route a multitude of times and it never gets old. read more

This is my main spot for my morning runs. I usually Park up by Lloyd Hall stretch and start my journey. What's their to write that hasn't already been written?? The winter months are my favorite because all the as I like to call them "seasonal runners" aren't out and about along with the bikers. I'm able to enjoy my run in the peace and quiet and don't have to maneuver around people. The view of the river is still beautiful and it's a smooth run. I like the fact that each bridge has a posting of how far you've run if you start by Lloyd hall. However you can figure it out if you didn't but just letting you know. The loop is about 8.5 miles or so I can be a little bit off. I at times stop and just take in the view and enjoy the outdoors. They have some trails across the way I've also ran thorough. All in all it's worth coming up here if your a runner. read more

Is indoor claustrophobia having a negative impact on your everyday life? Do you constantly feel lethargic, restless and confined? Allow me to introduce: Kelly Drive. Kelly Drive works quickly and effectively to combat symptoms of onset cabin fever, lassitude and type I stationariness. The path is uniquely designed to maximize your outdoor experience by providing easy access right from center city, with an entrance conveniently located at 25th and Locust Streets. The paved path meanders past the art museum, along boathouse row, to downtown Manayunk and beyond - so no matter where you are, Kelly's there, too. Go ahead, escape the stale air of four-wall detainment, frolic among the Canadian geese, and embrace the great outdoors. Kelly wants you to. The fine print: side effects include but are not limited to: heavy breathing, sense of freedom, healthier lifestyle, an addiction to the path and/or the activities associated with it. read more

I just recently moved into Philly, and this was the first place I thought to come to rollerblade. It's very well kept, and highly populated with bikers/runners/walkers/skaters. There is free 2hr parking just behind the Art Museum, and various parking points up north along Kelly Dr. There are also a few entrance points from the city on the southern stretch (including 30th St. station). The scenery is very nice, and I've found it to be a very safe route to ride. There are indeed geese everywhere, but I've never had much of an issue with them crossing the paths (they seem to know to avoid fast-moving humans). On a nice summer day, I'd likely consider taking a small lunch out and sunbathing/picnicing along the banks as well. read more

Whether its for a weekend morning-afternoon run, an after work stress relieving jog, or the quickest way to get to Manayunk and beyond from the city..... Kelly Drive you make me appreciate living in Philly. It's never too loud, never too crowded, and the views of the Schullykill are the best of anywhere in the city. I honestly don't have one bad thing to say about Kelly Dr. and I never appreciated as much as I did until I started regularly visiting other metro-type cities. We are so lucky to have this much green grass and water landscape maintained so nicely. Thanks to all those people that work so hard to keep this area clean and safe. read more

I like driving this way to avoid 76, but it's pretty intimidating, lots of narrow curves, and everyone drives pretty fast. If you are on the inner lane, looks like you are going to hit someone, it's an adventure. Mostly I go here for running, biking, to get to the boats to row. It's Philly's version of lake shore drive and I like it. read more

Absolutely beautiful when it's not under water :) Kelly Drive/Boat House Row is absolutely something everyone must see when visiting Philadelphia. The boathouses during the winter months when decorated for the holidays is especially nice to see. Running, jogging, walking, roller blading, cycling, you name it - it's done on Kelly Drive. Each time I go for a run here I find something new that I love about it. read more

Besides for the rude dicks, the overly aggressive joggers, the angry cyclists, and the general lack of regard for your fellow man, Kelly Drive is really nice. The scenery is so relaxing and taking a walk along Kelly Drive is a great way to get your exercise in while taking in the natural beauty of what's just outside DT Philly. There's normally parking along the street that's free but limited to time or tiny side lots. If you're going to walk or jog, best not to take more than one friend with you to chat with because the pathways aren't wide enough for more than 3 people walking side-by-side without taking over one side completely. If the weather calls for some cool weather in the general area, walking along Kelly Drive will be cooler and there will be a breeze so best to wear a light windbreaker or long sleeve on a cool day. Kelly Drive is long enough to walk for the whole afternoon and best of all, it's connected to the Philadelphia Museum of Art so that's pretty awesome. Also, there are a few cool places to eat at the end of the path (towards the art museum and Center City) and also the historic Philadelphia East Penitentiary that you could tour. So in closing, there are plenty of overly aggressive assholes here but the natural beauty and historical structures make up for it. Parking: Limited free street parking or tiny side lots read more

This drive plus Fairmont park is the jewel of the city. This park along the river is really something special. Everyone travels it by car or bike or walking at one time or another. With wonderful views it is a haven in the midst of the city. read more

Kelly Dr. is definitely one of my favorite places in Philly! Great for families, runners, walkers, lovers of fresh air, etc. When it's sunny, there are always tons of people out and about! Philadelphia is such an active city, and Kelly Dr. is a great addition! If you are a runner, it's a pretty nice scene for a long run. I like to loop around, at the East Falls bridge and run back on MLK Dr. Finishing up at the art museum. I believe it's around 8 miles total ( don't quote me on that). read more

I have to say that I am quite shocked not see any reviews of Kelly Dr and two for West River Drive?? Okay, fair enough, if you're a local, you know it well. Though if you're an out of towner looking for a good place to run/walk/bike/people watch or just get a breath of fresh air, I suggest you make your way down to the Drive. Kelly Dr (formerly known as East River Dr back in the day) is a great escape from the confines of being pent up in the concrete jungle. Starting at the Art Museum, KD cuts right through Fairmount Park and hugs the east side of the Schuylkill River for about 4 miles until it ends at Route 1 in East Falls. This is one of my favorite spots to put in a long run in the city. There is a wide paved trail between the river and street, which makes for a great place to run or hit up some biking and it is relatively flat the entire distance. The scenery is awesome. You get the river on one side and on the other side you can take in a numbers of hills, rocky bluffs, and never ending deciduous greenery. It's also worth mentioning the crew teams on the river, Boathouse Row, & downtown skyline, amongst other notables such as other statues and historic landmarks along the route. You won't need to worry about "blocking the box" either. The path is uninterrupted from motor vehicles from start to finish, which is great for when you are keeping up your momentum and not having to stop at a street to cross (save for the East Falls Bridge, but at that point your close enough to the end that you might as well consider it the end). An overall great place to get out of the city, while still being in the center of it. read more

Oh, Kelly Drive! How dost I love thee! Whenever my day has gone to hell in a handbasket, I just come to you. Your peaceful scenery makes my work-commute enjoyable and soothing to the senses. Your sexy curves are exciting to drive (except when someone who doesn't know how to manuever their car attempts to handle your sexiness. *GRRR*) Your walking paths provide a welcoming venue when my friends and I want to take a walk to catch up with each other. You're home to Boathouse Row, one of my favorite Philly landmarks, and give a great backdrop for the Art Museum. And you, by far, provide the best people-watching in the city. You've been the location of countless wonderful memories from all phases of my life... I can't imagine my life with you. read more

The road that has been my training ground for my 2 Broad St. Runs, Half marathon and upcoming half marathon next week. I want to go off on how go it as a running trail. It is a very scenic trail that lets you see Boathouse Row, the Sculykill river, the Art Museum as well as the ducks. But what I also like is that the trails are marked by each 1/4 mile, so you know how far you are going, not only by mile, but how far you are into each mile. There are other uses besides the running. For couples, its offers a romantic stroll and plenty of grass to have a nice picnic. Speaking of picnics, there are plenty of tables for families and friends to join. Likewise, there is plenty of parking lots for people to park and is free to boot. Also, if 76 traffic is too bad, like it always is, there is an alternate route briefly to avoid traffic. read more

Former rower from one of the boathouses; one of the most ubiquitious yet non-entirely unpleasant tasks was to log many miles running from the boathouses (before or after the water workout). One great landmark - if you're heading upriver (away from Art Museum and BH Row), you'll pass under Girard Ave bridge and then a brown railroad bridge. About 100m or so after that on your right across thje street is statue of a cowboy on a horse. (God I hope it's still there) It's an original Fredrick Remington, and one of the only life-size statues he ever did. He personally chose that spot, too. Don't let the city move it! read more

Kelly Drive is another one of those Center City escapes that make you appreciate the beauty of experiencing all four seasons. Come here in a comfortable pair of shoes and a bottle of water to enjoy plenty of trees and lush grass. The statues around Kelly Drive only add to the visual appeal. If your dog is down for a long walk, this is an ideal location! read more

It is so beautiful here. Get out and check it out. We drove down it. That is cheating. I get it. But hey, I didn't have my bike with me. Next time I will be prepared. It is lovely and we are so glad we experienced it at least by driving other than not at all. read more

Best place for a run in Philly that we have found so far. Park your car somewhere along the path and take a few mile jog next to the Boat Houses. Or, just bike all the way there and back. Fairly relaxing. Picnic in the park for the summertime! read more

Perfect for a long walk or a refreshing run, Kelly Drive runs along one of the most scenic routes in the city. Back in my Navy days, it used to be a great route to march along, since it's always teeming with people and is a fun place to be on the weekends. Even now, I love walking down past the Art Museum to the Waterworks area, and then past Boathouse Row. On the typical summer weekend, you can find folks out there in droves, and it's a great family environment. The path itself is well maintained and perfectly suited for bike riding and roller-blading, so long as you avoid the rampant geese! :) On the road-based-perspective of things, Kelly Drive is a great way to get off of 76 and have a slightly less jam-prone route into the city. That being said, watch out for the people who treat it like an extension of 76 and drive at 60+ MPH. The curves are rather sharp, and it can be (as others have mentioned) quite intimidating at times. Nevertheless, between Kelly Drive and Belmont, you've got some good options! And oh yeah, the geese aren't too bright, so be careful when driving, please! read more

Hands down one of my favorite places in Philadelphia. You can enjoy the parks scenery, feed ducks, take photos, take a cruise down the road on your motorcycle or in your car. If you park you can enjoy a nice job, run or work out then wander around the fair mount park area to the museums or food places. Always a relaxing joyous time! I love the rollerblading here as well! read more

Kelly Drive - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Gorgeous scenic views, a fantastic public space, areas for picnicking, walking along the riverside, or renting bikes. There's something for everyone here, and I think it really showcases much of what Philadelphia has to offer. I will say driving around here can be a pain, but there is a free parking lot nearby which is super helpful! read more

I run on Kelly Drive. A lot. I'm really lucky to live closeby. That's not why Kelly earned a 5-star rating from me though. I actually often get bored running on Kelly. She earned her rating because when I'm having a bad day and need a breath of fresh air or a dose of sun with a nice view, Kelly is ALWAYS there for me. Whether it's sitting on the benches people watching, enjoying boathouse row, or daydreaming while walking the entire loop, Kelly Drive has something for everyone in need of a little Kelly therapy. read more